Explore the Region
“The Corbières, the coast, the cities — everything within easy reach”
We’ve been exploring this corner of southern France since 2022 and we’re still discovering new favourites. Here’s what we think is worth your time — from the unmissable to the places most visitors never find.
Top Attractions
- Carcassonne — Walk the ramparts of Europe’s greatest walled city, then settle in for a bowl of cassoulet in the old town. A full day out, easily.
- Narbonne — Roman history, canal-side cafés and Les Halles — one of France’s finest covered markets. Don’t miss the new Narbo Via Roman museum.
- Canal du Midi — A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the great engineering achievements of the 17th century. Cycle the towpath through tunnels of plane trees, take a boat trip, or simply sit at a canal-side café and watch the world drift by.
- Pézenas — A beautifully preserved old town, excellent brocantes and a lively Saturday market. Perfect for a relaxed half day.
- Béziers — Dramatic cathedral, lively market city and the famous Fonseranes staircase of nine Canal du Midi locks.
- Cathar castles — Lastours, Quéribus and Peyrepertuse cling dramatically to the hilltops. Extraordinary views and fascinating history.
- Réserve Africaine de Sigean — One of Europe’s largest African wildlife reserves. Lions, rhinos, bears and giraffes roam freely. Allow a full day.
- Terra Vinea, Portel-des-Corbières — An extraordinary underground cathedral of galleries 80 metres below ground, with sound and light shows and a wine tasting to finish. Combine with Sigean for a full day out.
Hidden Gems
- Where to eat & drink — From village bistros and seafood shacks on the coast to gastronomic restaurants in Carcassonne and Narbonne — we know the best spots. Ask us for our current recommendations.
- Lagrasse — One of the most beautiful villages in France, with a medieval abbey, stone bridge and the river Orbieu running through it. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.
- Minerve — A dramatic village perched above two gorges with deep Cathar history. Small, quiet and unforgettable.
- Marseillan — A beautiful port town on the Étang de Thau. Visit the famous Noilly Prat vermouth cellars right on the harbour, then stay for lunch at one of the waterside restaurants — or try the oysters and mussels farmed right here in the lagoon.
- Gruissan & Narbonne-Plage — Long sandy beaches, salt flats, flamingos and the famous stilt-house village of Gruissan. The Mediterranean at its most unspoiled.
- Le Somail — A picture-postcard canal hamlet with five restaurants, a famous second-hand bookshop and boats drifting past under the plane trees. One of our favourite spots.
- Vélorail du Canal du Midi — Pedal along old railway tracks beside the Canal du Midi on a rail bike — seats up to 5, takes about 1h15 through shaded countryside. Unique, fun and bookable online.
- Oulibo, Bize-Minervois — One of the largest olive cooperatives in France. Visit the mill, discover how olive oil is made and buy direct from the producer.
Map & Getting Here
Easy Access by Car and Air – Ideal for Road Trips in Southern France
Le Relais des Vignerons is just 5 minutes from the A61 motorway (Autoroute des Deux Mers), providing quick connections to major cities like Toulouse, Montpellier, Perpignan, and even Barcelona. Whether you’re traveling by car or flying into the region, reaching us is simple and stress-free.
Nearby Airports
- Carcassonne Airport (CCF) – 30 min
Direct flights from the UK, Ireland, Belgium, and more. - Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport (BZR) – 1 hr
Seasonal flights to/from several European destinations. - Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport (PGF) – 1 hr
Domestic and select international flights. - Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS) – 1 hr 30 min
Major international hub with extensive flight connections. - Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport (MPL) – 1 hr 45 min
A modern airport serving Europe and North Africa.
Map
Book your Stay
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a wine-tasting adventure, or a peaceful escape in the countryside, Le Relais des Vignerons is ready to welcome you.
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